Curator’s statement
Amsterdam is a city with endless options as far as things to do. With pretty canal views, historical sites, and loads of museums, it's a city you don't want to miss. Amsterdam is a fabulous transition into a longer European adventure. With direct flights from many U.S. cities, you could add it to the beginning or end of many itineraries. I chose to combine Amsterdam with a trip to Belgium, as you can take a very quick two-hour train between Amsterdam and Brussels.
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Day 1
Day 1:
Land in Amsterdam and make your way to your choice of accommodation for a three-night stay. After checking in, head out on an Amsterdam Classic Boat Cruise with Live Guide, Drinks and Cheese. This tour departs at various times throughout the day and is a great way to get to know Amsterdam and start your adventure. Grab lunch at Blue Amsterdam, a cute cafe and bar, with some excellent panoramic city views. After lunch, check out the Red Light Secrets Museum. This is a fun and very interesting museum that showcases the history of Amsterdam's sex-work industry. Alternatively, or if you are traveling with children, I would recommend Body Worlds. Even if you are not typically a museum person, this is a really fabulous anatomy exhibit, educational, and absolutely worth checking out! Pick up a sweet treat at Stroopwafel #1. Head to Restaurant The White Room by Jacob Jan Boerma for beautiful decor and globally inspired tasting menus.
Day 2
Day 2:
Start your morning with a delicious coffee and Greek pie at Kafenion Amsterdam. Afterward, make your way to the Anne Frank House. You will want to purchase tickets online in advance, but this is a must-do when in Amsterdam to learn about the life of Anne Frank & her family during WWII. Afterward, make your way to Box Sociaal Jordaan for a yummy brunch or lunch. For the afternoon, I would recommend your choice of Zaanse Schans Windmills, Clogs, and Dutch Cheese Small-Group Tour or a bike tour of Amsterdam's highlights and hidden gems. For dinner, I would recommend MOS for a beautiful waterfront meal with a tasting menu.
Day 3
Day 3:
Start your day with breakfast at Omelegg Centrum and fill up on a delicious omelet. Make your way to the Van Gogh Museum with Reserved Entry and take a semi-private guided tour. This is another Amsterdam must-see! Alternatively, you may choose to check out the Amsterdam Tulip Museum. For lunch, head to The Pantry for some traditional Dutch cuisine. After lunch, head to Kalverstraat to do some shopping and explore at your leisure. To finish off your Amsterdam itinerary, I would recommend a late afternoon or evening Amsterdam Small-Group Food Tour through the canals and Jordaan. You'll indulge in some Dutch drinks and yummy cuisine with local experts at some of the hidden gems.
Day 4
Day 4:
Check out and make your way to your next European destination or head home if you are at the end of your trip.
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Katie Anderson
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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, A Scenic Summer Getaway to Banff.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Amsterdam